The Indo Daily

The Indo Daily

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Episode's summary

Fianna O'Shea and Tanya Sweeney discuss the release of Nikita Hand's memoir, 'Not the Perfect Victim'. The episode explores Hand's civil case against Conor McGregor, the harrowing details of the December 2018 incident, and her journey toward healing. The discussion also covers the emotional toll of the legal battles, including Hand's experiences with trauma from a later home invasion and the struggle with public scrutiny and online abuse. The conversation highlights the significance of her book title and the overwhelming support she received from other survivors.

Chapters

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Highlights

I want to show Freya and every other girl and boy that you can stand up for yourself if something happens to you, no matter who the person is, and justice will be served.

00:01:35 · Nikita Hand expresses her motivation for seeking justice through her personal strength.

I have nothing to hide and I have nothing to worry about.

00:04:09 · Tanya Sweeney describes Nikita Hand's confidence in telling her truth publicly.

I think she did that in the spirit of sort of self-preservation. She was quite worried for her safety.

00:11:47 · The interviewer explains why Nikita Hand chose to go to sleep immediately after the assault occurred.

I think what she means by that is there is no such thing as a perfect victim.

00:21:36 · The speaker explains the significance of the book's title in relation to Nikita's fears about being judged for her actions prior to the incident.

She saw it all. And I can't imagine that was an easy thing for her to come up against. What she did say, she received hundreds of hundreds and hundreds of messages from women who said, I never reported my sexual assault. I never reported my rape. You've done this. You've almost done this for all of us.

00:23:23 · The speaker describes the overwhelming support Nikita received from other survivors despite facing intense online abuse.

Episodes

1770-

Nikita Hand: ‘Not the Perfect Victim’ and life after Conor McGregor

Fianna O'Shea and Tanya Sweeney discuss the release of Nikita Hand's memoir, 'Not the Perfect Victim'. The episode explores Hand's civil case against Conor McGregor, the harrowing details of the December 2018 incident, and her journey toward healing. The discussion also covers the emotional toll of the legal battles, including Hand's experiences with trauma from a later home invasion and the struggle with public scrutiny and online abuse. The conversation highlights the significance of her book title and the overwhelming support she received from other survivors.

21 Sep 2026
1769-

‘Hen House Boy’: A story of neglect that shocked Ireland

This episode explores the tragic true story of Kevin Halfpenny, known as the 'henhouse boy,' who was discovered living in an outhouse in County Down in 1956. The discussion details his severe malnutrition and developmental issues, alongside the investigation into his mother's neglectful living conditions. The episode also covers the trial of Margaret Halfpenny, her defense regarding rickets, and the intense public scrutiny that followed. Finally, it examines how this case has transitioned into Irish folklore and art, before transitioning to a discussion on back pain and posture.

20 Sep 2026
1768-

Behind the bailout: The rise, fall and legacy of Brian Cowen

This episode explores the political career and legacy of former Taoiseach Brian Cowen, tracing his rise within Fianna Fáil following the transition of power from Bertie Ahern. The discussion delves into the complexities of his leadership, including the controversial circumstances surrounding Ahern's resignation and the influential family background that shaped Cowen's early life. The conversation further examines Cowen's role during the Irish financial crisis, addressing allegations of personal grudges and rumors regarding his conduct. It also analyzes the discrepancy between Cowen's perception of being misled about bank stability and the public view of Ireland losing national sovereignty during the EU/IMF bailout.

18 Sep 2026
1767-

Will Ed Sheeran’s career survive as Irish artists desert his tour?

This episode explores the growing controversy surrounding Ed Sheeran's tour, following the withdrawal of support acts like Macklemore and Aaron Rowe due to tensions over pro-Palestinian statements. The speakers debate whether Sheeran is maintaining a neutral stance or succumbing to pressure from promoters and billionaires. The discussion further examines the complexities of celebrity involvement in political issues, weighing the risks of speaking out against the implications of silence. The conversation touches upon the boundaries of freedom of speech, the nature of 'cancelling' artists, and how the global political climate influences the music industry.

16 Sep 2026
1766-

Trump's 'United States of Ireland' in focus as Martin meets Burnham

This episode examines the political implications of Donald Trump's recent comments expressing support for a united Ireland and how this affects US-UK relations. The panel analyzes the diplomatic strategies of Taoiseach Micheál Martin and UK leaders like Andy Burnham, weighing the potential for political capital against the risks to trade and economic stability. The discussion further explores the perspectives of UK devolved leaders regarding independence and economic pressures in Northern Ireland. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the potential impact of US trade policies and tariffs on the United Kingdom's economic future.

15 Sep 2026